The Michigan Amateur Hockey Association (MAHA) sends its heartfelt condolences to the family of Joseph J. Spedowski, who sadly passed away on Thursday, June 15th, 2023 at the age of 76 in his home in Big Rapids, MI surrounded by his family.
Born in Big Rapids on March 3rd, 1947, the son of Joseph A. and Joyce (Sattler) Spedowski, Joe attended St. Mary Catholic School through 8th grade and later graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1965. Following graduation, Joe joined the United States Air Force where he served his country honorably during the Vietnam War.
In 1965, Joe met his future wife (Nancy Hargett) in Florida and they were married on September 6, 1969 in Concord, NC.
His next stop was college where he attended Ferris State University and Central Michigan University, earning his Master’s Degree. Joe began working at FSU and retired as an administrator after more than 30 years of employment. He also owned and operated Spedowski Pool and Spa from 1978 to 2021.
Joe first became involved in youth hockey more than 30 years ago and has held many positions in the Big Rapids Area Junior Hockey Association (BRAJHA) including team manager, team coach, board member and registrar. He served USA Hockey and MAHA as an association representative, District 6 Director and Chairperson, and USA Hockey High School representative. Joe also served as a Coach Developer for the USA Hockey Coaching Education Program.
In addition, Joe helped create the Adray West Michigan Hockey League (along with his brother, Jeff), which has been instrumental in the growth of youth hockey in West Michigan.
Along with his involvement in youth hockey, Joe was active in Ferris State Hockey through the FSU Blueline Club and has served as the rink maintenance director and a CCHA Off-Ice Official.
In 2011, Joe was named one of the Michigan Hockey’s ’50 Most Influential People in Michigan.’
Joe is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Nancy L. Spedowski of Big Rapids; son, Mike Spedowski of Big Rapids; grandchildren, River and Autumn Spedowski; brothers, Jeff (Barb) Spedowski of Big Rapids and Jordan Spedowski of Reed City; sister-in-law, Nancy K. Spedowski of Big Rapids; and several nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents; son, Joe “JoJo” Spedowski; brothers, James (Karen) Spedowski, Jerry Spedowski, and sister-in-law Jackie Spedowski.
Mass of the Resurrection will be held 11:00am on Thursday, June 22, 2023 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Big Rapids with Father Jegar Fickel officiating and Father Lam T. Le and Father Michael Burt con-celebrating. The family will greet friends on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Big Rapids starting at 4:00pm until 7:00pm with a time of sharing from 7:00pm to 7:30pm. Joe will be laid to rest at Mount Carmel Cemetery in Big Rapids at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made in Joe’s name to Mecosta County Rod and Gun Club, P.O. Box 164, Mecosta, MI 49332, or the Adray Scholarship Fund, 23400 13 Mile Rd., Big Rapids, MI 49307.
Arrangements and care entrusted to Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids.
Please leave a memory, condolence, and picture at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com